We thought we were on top of our planning, but suddenly, we were way behind

I am fortunate to have recently come back from a much-needed family vacation. I was able to sleep in, and (gasp!) actually finish a book that was unrelated to wedding planning. The relaxation period was short lived due to the reality check I received upon my return.

Over the past month, Andrew and I had been in the planning lull. All of the major vendors were booked and contracts were tweaked. I became less fervent with my Pinterest, Google image and Facebook “research.” I allowed my grad school applications to take priority for a while. In hindsight, I think I enjoyed this break for a little too long.

My future mother-in-law is amazingly organized (remember Andrew’s obsession with spreadsheets?) and has been extremely helpful with the planning considering her daughter just got married a few years ago. Kathy was asking what we had left on our to-do list. Andrew and I happily replied, “not much!” but as we rambled off a list, waiting for his mom to be impressed with what little we thought we had left, I realized our list is still unconscionably lengthy. Many of the tasks we still have to take care of are time-sensitive too, like ordering our invitations. Panic started to set in. Visions of Christina Applegate screaming “I’m right on top of that, Rose!” as she is drowning in work she can’t handle flashed across my brain.

First thing is first: Save the Dates. In a perfect world, they would have gone out a little earlier than your typical 6 months before the wedding, given that most of our guests have to make travel arrangements. Plus, we weren’t crazy about the idea of sending them off at the same time as Christmas cards. December 1st was our 6 month mark. We still have not picked up our Save the Dates. So, now that I’ve come down from my vacation high, I am eagerly trying to catch up and get them out before the New Year.

'Tis the season to get married, and local celebrities are no exception. From politicians to athletes and TV personalities, we've rounded up engagement and wedding photos from Baltimore's biggest names. Who knows? Perhaps you'll find inspiration for your own nuptials. -- L'Oreal Thompson

Browse photos of recent Maryland weddings -- from traditional church ceremonies to quirky, Baltimore-themed celebrations. To read more about each couple's story, go to baltimoresun.com/weddings. Just wedded? Email your wedding details to weddings@baltsun.com.

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